The word "cellaring" (/ˈsɛlərɪŋ/) is the present participle form of the verb "cellar," which means to store or age wine in a cellar. The phonetic transcription shows that the stress is on the second syllable, with a short "e" followed by an "l" sound. The "a" in the second syllable is pronounced as a schwa sound, while the final syllable has a short "i" sound followed by the "ng" sound. The spelling of "cellaring" follows standard English conventions of adding "-ing" to a verb to form a present participle.
Cellaring refers to the practice of storing wine, typically in a cellar or other controlled environment, for the purpose of aging and improving its flavor and characteristics over time. It is a method that allows wines to develop complexity and depth by undergoing chemical reactions that occur as a result of long-term storage.
Cellaring is an essential process for wines that are considered age-worthy, such as certain reds (e.g., Bordeaux, Barolo) and some whites (e.g., Chardonnay, Riesling). The primary goal of cellaring is to allow the wine to evolve and mature, often resulting in better integration of flavors, softer tannins, enhanced aromatics, and increased complexity.
The ideal conditions for cellaring include a consistent cool temperature (around 55°F or 13°C), moderate humidity (around 70%), and minimal exposure to light and vibrations. These factors help to slow down the wine's aging process and prevent spoilage.
Wines that are suitable for cellaring typically possess certain characteristics, such as high acidity, firm tannins, and intense flavors. It is important to note that not all wines benefit from cellaring, as some are meant to be enjoyed in their youth. Therefore, it is crucial to research and consult expert advice when considering which wines to cellar.
In conclusion, cellaring is a method used to age wine and enhance its flavors and complexity. It involves the storage of wines in a controlled environment to allow them to evolve and develop desirable characteristics over time.
The word "cellaring" is derived from the noun "cellar". "Cellar" originated from the Old French word "celier", which itself came from the Late Latin term "cellarium". "Cellarium" referred to a storehouse or a place of storage, specifically for food and drink. In Latin, "cella" meant "storeroom" or "chamber", which is related to the Latin word "cellula", meaning "small room" or "cell". Over time, "cellar" came to signify an underground room or space used for storing and aging wine, beer, or other perishable goods, leading to the verb "cellaring" for the act of storing items in a cellar.